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2026 Summer Camp Guide Coming Soon!


The Mental Health Conversation Our Kids Need Us to Have
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center If you are raising children today, chances are you have seen it firsthand. The child who suddenly doesn’t want to go to school. The teenager who seems overwhelmed by anxiety. The young child struggling with big emotions they cannot yet explain. The family trying to figure out whether if what they’re seeing is a phase, stress, or something that requires professional support. Children today are growing up in a world that can feel increasingly co


Spook Rock Golf Academy Summer Camps
Spook Rock’s golf camps are designed for boys and girls between the ages of 6yrs – 16yrs.


Minty Melon Slushie by Stacey Antine, MS, RD
On hot, steamy days, there is nothing more refreshing than an all-natural slushie! The only preparation required is to freeze the melons ahead of time into cubes or balls. This slushie gets its color naturally from vitamins A and C. Kids and grown-ups definitely agree on this delicious and nutritious melon slushie with a hint of mint and sweetness. Enjoy! Ingredients: 1 cup watermelon, frozen 1 cup cantaloupe, frozen 1 cup honey dew melon, frozen 2 cups water (coconut water o


Bergen County Moms Family Fun Guide: June 2026 Activities & Events
Weekend Events June 12 - June 14, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. 🏳️🌈 Celebrating Pride Month + Events Locally and Around the World in 2026 Click here for information FIFA World Cup Fan Festival (Flag Cities 2026) 📍 Overpeck Park, Leonia, NJ Celebrate the excitement of the FIFA World Cup with this free family-friendly fan festival featuring live match viewing, soccer-themed activities, entertainment, musi


The Book is Coming! Leashes, Lessons and Love — What Dogs Teach Us About Raiding Our Kids and Ourselves by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach
The book is coming! The book is coming! The release date is June 16. Here's the origin story. Spoiler alert: it's taken 13 years to birth this book and get it out into the world. Leashes, Lessons and Love — What Dogs Teach Us About Raiding Our Kids and Ourselves — is my first book and I can’t wait for you to have it in your hands. Six months after our first dog, Goldie, passed, and we said we couldn’t go through it again… well, you know how that goes. Kessie came into our ho


Top 5 Renovation Companies in New Jersey for 2026: Who To Trust With Your Remodel
Kitchen Renovation, Edgewater, New Jersey Choosing the right renovation company in New Jersey can make or break your project. From permitting and project management to design and execution, the best renovation companies in the Garden State combine technical expertise with reliable service. In this guide, we highlight the top 5 renovation companies in New Jersey for 2026, starting with Chapter, a full-service design-build firm recently ranked among the top 3 contractors by Arc


Moms, You Need to Know the Connection Between Your Pelvic Floor and Your Mental Health by Lauren Bomberg, LPC, BC-DMT, PMH-C
Many women are surprised to learn that mental health and pelvic floor health are closely connected, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Anxiety, stress, and birth-related trauma can affect the body in ways that extend beyond emotional well-being, often contributing to physical symptoms that impact daily life. In these visuals, the Lukin Center explores the often-overlooked connection between pelvic floor health and mental well-being during pregnancy and pos


The Most Dangerous Words in Marriage: “He Handles It” by Tracy Byrnes, CDFA®
There are four words I hear from women constantly when it comes to money: “He handles all that.” The investments. The taxes. The retirement accounts. The insurance policies. And honestly? I get it. Life is busy. Between careers, kids, activities, aging parents, dinners, laundry and just surviving the week, someone naturally takes over the financial side of life. In many marriages, it becomes the husband. Until one day, something changes. Maybe it is divorce. Maybe illness. Ma


Eggplant Parm Towers by Stacey Antine, MS, RDN
This recipe “stacks up” better than the traditional eggplant parm you’ll find on the menu at your favorite Italian restaurant. We wanted to lighten up the old-school version, which can be very heavy and high in calories. We started by baking instead of frying the eggplant but still kept the crunchy texture by using panko breadcrumbs, reducing the extra calories and saturated fat. The result is a protein and fiber-packed side dish or main course, if you serve with a mixed gree


Manifesting a Better Future One 5K Step at a Time by Elena Croy, Writer/Editor + National Down Syndrome Society DS Ambassador
When Hope was born in 2015, I thought for sure that the world had Down syndrome all figured out. There was a reality show on A&E following seven young adults with DS who were thriving in Southern California. We had easy access to medical research and healthcare guidelines to ensure Hope would have the best start possible from the moment she took her first breath of air. She was treated with dignity through all of the interventions she required during her first few weeks of li


Celebrating Pride Month + Events Locally and Around the World in 2026
This June marks the 56th celebration of Pride Month -- a time when millions of people come together in support of the LGBTQ+ community by walking in parades and attending festivals. We are proud to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community this month and every day. To help kick off Pride Month, whether you're interested in watching or being a part of an event, here's a calendar of Pride events happening in New Jersey and around the world!


The Invisible Job: What It Really Means to Manage Your Family's Health
By Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti Arranging for a sports physical. Scheduling flu shots for the family. Making sure a sick child gets a same-day appointment with the pediatrician. Managing prescriptions and appointments for elderly parents. These are the tasks that usually fall on the woman of the house; she is the de-facto family scheduler and healthcare manager. I certainly know this firsthand from my own experience organizing the healthcare of my three sons, husband and aging pa


Stay Cool + Safe: Summer Pool Safety with Acqua Pools
Pools open! It's that time of year for pool parties and celebrations! Although swimming remains one of the healthiest and safest forms of recreation today, the need for awareness about pool safety cannot be over-stressed. When people (especially children) come to a pool, a full explanation of pool rules should be given before any activity around the pool begins. This not only helps prevent accidents from occurring, but it helps you win the respect of your guests. Be sure t


Blueberries + Pancakes by Stacey Antine, MS, RDN
Blueberries are a superfood! Blueberries are versatile fruit: great for fruit salads, grain salads, smoothies, and baked goods! But did you know that this delicious little fruit is also a superfood? Their deep blue color isn’t just pretty to look at. The color is a result of a high flavonoid content, which may help to preserve memory and is a powerful antioxidant. Blueberries also have a high water content, keeping your skin nicely hydrated. One cup of raw blueberries p


Why the Instinct to Correct Works Against You and Your Child by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach
The instinct to correct. Sit with that for a while. When children make mistakes, the instinct to correct just appears. It is, after all, an instinct. It comes unbidden, without thought. To quote Star Trek, it comes from the brain’s “prime directive” — to protect and ensure survival. This leads to an often-uncontrollable need parents have: to teach to guide to prevent mistakes to help their child do better next time But there’s a small – and quite significant – step that of


Bergen County Moms Family Fun Guide: May 2026 Activities & Events
Weekend Events May 29 - May 31, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. Duck, Duck, Doc Hosted by One Bergen Health 📍 Wild Duck Pond, Ridgewood, NJ Bring the whole family out for a fun afternoon! This family-friendly community event will feature kids activities, games, giveaways, refreshments, and interactive fun for all ages — plus a chance to connect with the physicians and specialists from One Bergen Health in a


✨ Everything You Need for Summer—All in One Place 🛍️ Featuring Whole Foods, Sephora, Mixology, [solidcore], Poké Nalu, Luxury Nails + Spa and More!
☀️ Shop Summer at Van Riper Plaza ☀️ From sunny mornings to summer nights, Van Riper Plaza is your go-to destination for shopping, dining, beauty, wellness, and seasonal fun. Whether you're planning beach days, backyard gatherings, or simply refreshing your summer routine, everything you need is right here in one convenient spot. ✨ Discover your summer favorites: ✨ Whole Foods for grilling-ready favorites and healthy summer snacks ✨ Sephora for dewy summer beauty and SPF vaca


The Top 5 Kitchen & Bathroom Design Priorities Bergen County Homeowners Are Embracing in 2026 by Ulrich, Inc.
For Bergen County homeowners, whether longtime residents or new to the area, a successful renovation is about creating spaces that feel both elevated and livable: calmer, easier, more beautiful, and more thoughtfully tailored to the families who use them every day. Here’s what Ulrich experts say homeowners are prioritizing in 2026: 1. Warm, Timeless Kitchens Wellness-centered remodeling continues to be one of the strongest trends. The all-white or white-and-gray kitchen aesth


☀️ Mosquito Joe Summer Sale Offer - Summer Fun Starts with a Mosquito and Tick-free Backyard!
Did You Know Mosquito Joe Also Offers: ✔️ Granular Treatment ✔️ Deer Repellent ✔️ Home pest defense Their targeted treatments create a protective barrier around your home—so you can enjoy your yard and spend more time with your family! Less stress. Less pests. More time outside. Mosquito Joe of Wayne 973-435-0747 WEBSITE Mosquito Joe of Wayne provides pest control services for residential and commercial properties. From mosquito, flea + tick and spotted lanternfly treatment


Abandonment Trauma: Signs, Causes, and How Therapy Can Help by Dr. Konstantin Lukin, Ph.D.
Abandonment trauma shapes the way a person relates to themselves and others long after the original experience has passed. It develops when early or repeated experiences of being left — emotionally or physically — create lasting patterns of fear, anxiety, and relational difficulty. For many people, these patterns go unrecognized for years, quietly driving relationship instability, low self-worth, and chronic emotional pain. Key Takeaways It starts early but shows up later: Ab


Caprese Salad on a Stick by Stacey Antine, MS, RDN
Caprese Salad on a Stick


Two Conversations Every Woman Deserves to Have With Her Doctor
By Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti There are certain conversations between a woman and her doctor that cannot be rushed. In over 25 years of clinical practice, two topics that frequently concern my patients as they enter their forties and fifties are the effects of perimenopause and how to approach cancer screening as they age. The traditional doctor’s office, where time is a limited commodity, may not be conducive to having these important conversations. Practicing medicine in a sm


Does Couples Therapy Work? What the Research Actually Shows by Dr. Konstantin Lukin, Ph.D.
Couples therapy works for most people who commit to it — decades of clinical research consistently show that structured, evidence-based approaches help partners reduce conflict, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection. Whether you’re facing communication breakdowns, infidelity, or growing apart over time, therapy gives couples the tools to change patterns that aren’t working. Key Takeaways Research-backed success rates: Studies show that approximately 70% of couple


Farm Fresh Omelette by Stacey Antine MS, RDN
If you haven’t had a tasty farm-fresh egg, you are really missing out. Egg whites get thumbs up from kids! Egg whites are a complete protein and kids will have fun getting some exercise by whisking them to be super-fluffy. We added fresh spinach and parsley from the garden for some greens. Next time you’re at the farmer’s market, look for eggs! Ingredients: 2 large egg whites 1 tablespoon low-fat (1%) milk 1 tablespoon chopped baby spinach ½ tablespoon shredded 50% reduc


5 Market Terms Every Woman Should Know (Finally Explained Clearly) by Tracy Byrnes, CDFA®
In honor of Financial Literacy Month Let’s be honest. Most women aren’t “bad with money.” They’ve just never had it explained clearly. And if you’ve ever nodded along to terms like dividends, bonds, “the market,” or the Fed without really knowing what they mean…you’re not alone. So in honor of Financial Literacy Month, let’s break down five market terms every woman should understand -- no jargon, no intimidation. 1. Stocks (a.k.a. Equities) & Dividends Let’s start simple: sto


Mending the Broken Heart: Parent Estrangement Support Group on May 7th Hosted by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach
You didn’t choose to go no-contact — but the effects can linger deeply. And if you’re here, you may be carrying confusion, grief, or unanswered questions about your relationship with your child. For many parents, it’s their child who chose distance. And while every story is different, one thing is shared: this experience can feel incredibly isolating. You don’t have to go through it alone. We invite you into a gentle, safe, and educational space where you can be supported wit


7 Minutes to a Doctor: Why Bergen County Moms Are Talking About the Emergency Department at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
Imagine being seen by a doctor in just 7 minutes. When something is wrong with your child or a loved one, those minutes can feel like forever. And in that moment, everything comes down to one urgent question: Where do we go right now? It might be a child struggling to breathe, a sudden fall, a parent with chest pain, or a moment in the middle of the night when something just doesn’t feel right. As moms, we’re used to managing everything—but in these moments, nothing feels in


Why Middle School Matters: Preparing Students for Upper School and Beyond at Saddle River Day School + OPEN HOUSE May 5 + 12
One of the questions parents of middle school students ask most frequently when they consider moving their children to Saddle River Day School is, “When is the optimal time to apply for admission?” Many families believe that their middle schoolers should maybe just wait and apply for admission to the Upper School in the 9th grade. Although 9th grade is the traditional time for students to make that transition, there are a number of reasons why a transfer to Saddle River Day S


5 Things to Know This Limb Loss/Limb Difference Awareness Month by Elena Croy, Writer/Editor + National Down Syndrome Society DS Ambassador and Jamie Scoccimarro
Henry is 8 and enjoys all things Minecraft, Animal Crossing, and Super Mario. When he grows up, Henry wants to be an entrepreneur. It was April of 2017 when I first heard the term “limb difference.” Sure, I’d seen people in movies or occasionally on a family trip with prosthetic limbs, but I never considered what their life experiences might have looked like–to me, they always seemed confident and natural. Actually, the first amputee I ever saw was “the one-armed man” as they


Don’t Let Deer or Mosquitoes Destroy Your Yard This Year—Mosquito Joe Has You Covered
Did You Know Mosquito Joe Also Offers Deer Repellent? From protecting your plants to keeping bugs away, they provide full outdoor protection with: ✔️ Deer repellent ✔️ Mosquito control ✔️ Tick control ✔️ Gnat control ✔️ Home pest defense Their targeted treatments create a protective barrier around your home—so you can enjoy your yard and spend more time with your family! Less stress. Less pests. More time outside. How Mosquito Joe Helps Mosquito Joe of Wayne 973-435-0747 WEB


Vietnamese Spring Rolls by Stacey Antine, MS, RD
This new recipe is a favorite with kids (and parents, too!). It’s super fun to make and delicious to eat, and it’s loaded with good nutrition. High in protein and vitamin A and also a good source of iron, just two Vietnamese Spring Rolls pack a serious nutrition punch. Perfect for lunch, as an afternoon snack or fancy party food! This is a thumbs up winner! Ingredients: ½ pound shrimp, deveined 10 ounces of thin rice noodles 16 rice paper sheets 1 cup mint leaves 2 cups sh


Bergen County Moms Family Fun Guide: April 2026 Activities & Events
Weekend Events April 24 - April 26, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. J.A. McFaul Environmental Center 📍 Wyckoff, NJ An 81-acre environmental park featuring scenic walking trails, gardens, a duck pond, and wildlife habitats—perfect for a peaceful family outing. Great for birdwatching, nature walks, and outdoor learning. Fri, April 24 – Sun, April 26 • Open daily (weather permitting) Free admission Environmenta


Manymoons: Redefining the Modern Wardrobe
We know that as Bergen County moms, you love the thrill of a great find. You want pieces that look beautiful, feel incredible, and hold up to your busy lives—but you also want to shop in a way that aligns with your values and your budget. That’s exactly why we are here. Born and raised right here in New Jersey, with our office in Ridgewood and our warehouse in Passaic, we are a local company on a massive, global mission: to disrupt the modern retail system. We achieve this by


How to Support Your Student-Athlete’s Mental Health: A Parent’s Guide by Stephen Neer, MS, LPC
A student-athlete’s mental health depends on three interconnected factors: their developmental stage, the emotional environment parents create, and how well the adults in their life respond when things get hard. Understanding all three can make the difference between a young athlete who thrives and one who quietly struggles. Key Takeaways Development drives what your child needs: Kids ages 7–11 need adults who reinforce effort and build self-esteem; teens ages 12–18 need spa


Rainbow Swirly Smoothie by Stacey Antine MS, RDN
The Rainbow Swirly Smoothie was created here at HealthBarn for kids by kids! It’s so easy, refreshing and vitamin-packed that parents love it, too. Blend this yummy smoothie up for breakfast or share it with friends for a high-energy, after-school snack. It’s loaded with vitamin C to help keep your body running strong, it’s a good source of calcium, and it has fiber to keep your digestive system regular. Drink up! Ingredients: 1½ cups frozen strawberries (can substitute froze


Why So Many Women in Bergen County Are Rethinking Their Relationship with Healthcare
By Dr. Karen Hart Since I moved to Harley Street Medical and began scheduling longer visits with patients, I’ve noticed a shift in our conversations. They want to understand their results, not just to be told that everything looks “fine.” They’re thinking about the next decade, not just the visit in front of them. And their trust in the traditional care system — one that feels designed to minimize these conversations and get them out the door — has been evaporating. A growin


Where Curiosity Comes to Life: Hands-On Science in Lower School at Saddle River Day + OPEN HOUSE April 17th
In most elementary schools, the science curriculum is limited to instruction and experiments that can be performed in the students’ primary classroom. The Lower School at Saddle River Day School is not like most elementary schools. One of the great features of the Lower School at Saddle River Day School is a dedicated science classroom and lab, one in which the science teachers have the space and the freedom to devise instructional units and experiments that include scien


Pea Hummus by Stacey Antine, MS, RD
Peas are the first seeds to be planted in the spring season, so we had to celebrate the season with this deliciously fresh Pea Hummus. The splash of orange juice makes it a good source of vitamin C to boost the immune system. This light and refreshing hummus is perfect for dipping or spreading on sandwich bread or wraps. Ingredients: ½ medium fennel bulb, trimmed 1 garlic clove ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped 1½ cups of fresh or frozen sweet green peas


Your Expectations Are Not My Responsibility by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach
OMG, how often have I put others above myself? Let their expectations be my guide? I believe we all struggle with this. You don’t have to jump when others say 'jump'. Yes, you have responsibilities on the job. That's what you're being paid for. But in your family... Are you giving in to your children more than you'd like? More than is good for them or for you? If you have helped create the expectations they have of you, then your responsibility is to alter how you respond. Th


Free Water Analysis by Passaic Bergen Water Softening
A Name You Can Trust At Passaic Bergen Water Softening, our quality control standards are the highest you’ll find anywhere. Experience is everything and our technicians are among the best in the water industry with years of experience behind each and every one of them. Since 1954, your satisfaction is always of paramount importance. Passaic Bergen Water Softening 537 Goffle Rd, Wyckoff, 07481 (201) 493-1111 2850 Route 23 North. Newfoundland, 07435 (973) 697-6055 2025 Suite B


Bergen County Parents, This One’s for You - Meet One Bergen Health: Care That Works as Hard as You Do
If you’re a parent in Bergen County, your calendar probably feels like a competitive sport. Between school drop-offs, sports practices, work meetings, errands, and remembering which form needs to be signed for which child, the days fill up fast. Somewhere in the middle of all that, you’re also supposed to find time to take care of your own health—like scheduling doctor’s appointments you’ve probably been putting off. That’s why we created One Bergen Health . Healthcare That


Wherever You Go, There You Are by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach
"Wherever you go, there you are" is the title of a book by meditation and mindfulness guru Jon Kabat-Zinn. It means that no matter what the circumstances or the environment, you are who you are. You can't leave yourself or your way of seeing life behind. It's spring break, a time for vacations and special activities. (This applies to the holiday season, and any other special occasion, too.) You'd think that when you're away everyone will be on their best behavior and appre


Visit William Lawrence Camp: All Boys. No Electronics. No Video Games.
William Lawrence Camp Have you heard about William Lawrence Camp located in New Hampshire’s lakes region? All boys. No electronics. No video games . William Lawrence is an overnight summer camp for boys in New Hampshire, offering a nature-based program designed to help boys grow beyond the classroom. Each day is filled with adventure, community, and time outdoors, giving campers the confidence, independence, and friendships that define a meaningful summer. T here’s no better


Take Back Your Yard — Save on Mosquito and Tick Control with Mosquito Joe of Wayne
Tired of Mosquitoes and Ticks Taking Over Your Yard? Target mosquitoes and ticks where they live and enjoy your outdoor space again. With Mosquito Joe mosquito and tick control, you can enjoy your pool, patio, and outdoors without the constant swatting and itching. Our services are effective against mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas at every life stage—eggs, larvae, and adults—by creating a protective barrier around your home. How Mosquito Joe Helps Mosquito Joe of Wayne 973-435-0


Psychotherapy vs. Therapy: Understanding the Difference and Finding the Right Care by Dr. Konstantin Lukin, Ph.D.
If you’ve ever searched for mental health support, you’ve probably come across the terms “therapy” and “psychotherapy” used almost interchangeably. It’s easy to assume they mean the same thing — and in many cases, they do. But there are important distinctions worth understanding, especially when you’re making decisions about your own mental health care. Whether you’re exploring options for the first time or looking to better understand your current treatment, this guide break


Mini Coffee Cakes with Flaxseed Walnut Streusel by Stacey Antine, MS, RD
Named Coffee Cake because it is usually served along with the popular breakfast beverage; we’d recommend your kids skipping the coffee part (but mom may need the caffeine boost every now and then!). Our version is made in a mini muffin pan to insure the right portion size. The traditional version is topped with a butter and sugar based crumb topping, but we use flaxseeds and walnuts to get that same flavor with a dose of good-for-you unsaturated fats. Skip the walnuts if all


SPARK Institute at Saddle River Day School: Dynamic Learning for Grades 3-12 Starts April 11
SPARK is a dynamic Saturday learning program designed for students who want more than traditional enrichment. Through hands-on, high-engagement courses in artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, personal finance, and essential life skills, SPARK offers education you won’t find anywhere else. Classes are taught by expert educators, emphasize real-world application, and are built around exploration, problem-solving, and critical thinking -- not worksheets and homework. Whethe


The High-Performance Home: Why You Need an “Intuitive” Kitchen by Ulrich, Inc.
For homeowners in Bergen County, as everywhere, the kitchen has evolved into a multi-functional hub for work, school, and social life. The trend has shifted away from the industrial “chef’s kitchen” toward layouts that prioritize high-performance functionality while maintaining a warm, uncluttered aesthetic. As design experts, we ensure each space flows in sync with a homeowner’s lifestyle, an experience increasingly supported by thoughtful integration of modern home technolo


10 Signs You Need Therapy: Recognize When to Seek Help with Dr. Konstantin Lukin, Ph.D.
Many people wonder at some point whether what they’re going through is “bad enough” to justify professional support. The truth is, there’s no threshold you have to hit before therapy becomes appropriate. But there are clear signs that talking to a mental health professional could be one of the most important decisions you make. At the Lukin Center for Psychotherapy , Northern New Jersey’s largest psychotherapy practice, we believe that recognizing the signs you need therapy


Together Against Loneliness: Happy World Down Syndrome Day! By Elena Croy, Writer/Editor + National Down Syndrome Society DS Ambassador
I didn’t want a child with Down syndrome. I needed a child with Down syndrome. And now that I have a child with Down syndrome, there will never again be a day without light or edges of my heart not brimming with love. The mom I thought I’d be was one who took my daughter to get our nails done on a regular basis. I thought I’d be sitting in packed auditoriums for her dance recitals and helping her do things I couldn’t, like ice skate or learn a second language. I saw all of

